Need Info 1979 k10 Th350/NP203 to SM465/NP205 swap

[TheBlueBomber]

Hi everybody, I'm trying to swap over my 350/TH350/NP203 set up eventually to a ???/SM465/NP205. Motor wise I'm thinking 454 but for now leaving it a 350.

So I've got a question or two. I recently bought a '79 k10 with a 350/Th350/NP203 setup. The truck has been converted to manual locking hubs with the 203. I want to make it into a SM465 backed by a NP205. What year transmission do I want to look at getting? I think in 86 the tranny switched to a hydraulic clutch? Do I want the hydraulic clutch setup? How hard is the pedal assembly to set up? Any information/pics or build threads will be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[manimal]

If you plan on wheelin it, a hydraulic clutch is the way to go-----no linkage to fall out during flex. As far as pedal assembly goes, you will need the set up and bolt it in. You will have to drill the holes in the firewall for the mounting studs and the center of the clutch master.
As for which trans/t-case...I think the fixed yoke set up would be the best for the t-case. I need to go back over some notes I have about the trans.

[k5chevy07]

Here's a few pics of when I did the swap. I went to the you-pull-it yard and found an 86 chevy with the sm465. Took everything from the transmission to the pedals to the hydro setup and even the clutch and flywheel for 150 bucks!! (All factory in 86) The swap was pretty strait forward.






I can answer any questions you may have.

[TheBlueBomber]

Originally Posted by k5chevy07

Here's a few pics of when I did the swap. I went to the you-pull-it yard and found an 86 chevy with the sm465. Took everything from the transmission to the pedals to the hydro setup and even the clutch and flywheel for 150 bucks!! (All factory in 86) The swap was pretty strait forward.

I can answer any questions you may have.

Awesome. I found an '86 on craigslist thats being parted out and is all there. im going to try and grab it all when I get down there. Where did you mount hydraulic stuff at? Factory locations for the 86?

[k5chevy07]

On my 86 k5 there were provisions (small dimples) in the firewall where the holes needed to be drilled. You will need a hole saw to drill the ~1.5" hole for the master cylinder. I'm not sure if earlier models have these provisions tho. Once you remove your brake pedal setup you should be able to see them clearly.

[79Betty]

If you can't get that 86 abd gottta piece it together be warned, it's pricy. Manual is easier, and cheaper. It depends on what you're using the truck for. My swap is manual. Ehy? It's a pullin truck. It will tow my sled truck. My other 4x4... Different story.
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[TheBlueBomber]

Originally Posted by 79Betty

If you can't get that 86 abd gottta piece it together be warned, it's pricy. Manual is easier, and cheaper. It depends on what you're using the truck for. My swap is manual. Ehy? It's a pullin truck. It will tow my sled truck. My other 4x4... Different story.
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The truck is going to be used for light wheeling and around town. I love driving manual transmission's especially if it's in an older vehicle. Even though I wont be tearing the crap out of it, I would like to have the option to at a moments notice. I don't always wheel, but when I do, I go hard.

[manimal]

Originally Posted by TheBlueBomber

I don't always wheel, but when I do, I go hard.

Then source all the parts to do a hydraulic set up and be done with it.

[TheBlueBomber]

Originally Posted by manimal

Then source all the parts to do a hydraulic set up and be done with it.

Okay. The guy is asking 500 for everything. Is that a good deal?

[79Betty]

If he included the shafts yea. I gave 400 for mine but hydraulic is always more "desireable"
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[TheBlueBomber]

Originally Posted by 79Betty

If he included the shafts yea. I gave 400 for mine but hydraulic is always more "desireable"
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That's with the shafts, tcase, tranny, hydro stuff, and pedal assembly

[SamsAutoParts73-87]

Originally Posted by TheBlueBomber

That's with the shafts, tcase, tranny, hydro stuff, and pedal assembly

That is a really good deal. Just make sure everything is included, especially the hyd. fluid reservoir which is hard to find. Also make sure to check the bell housing for cracks as the OEM casting are rather thin, and I have seen several with cracks, and or repairs.

-Sam